My name is Meriam and I am Eritrean and work as a Human Resource Consultant. I met my hubby through a mutual friend and he proposed while on vacation in Kauai, Hawaii. My first thought after I said yes was “What just happened…am I really getting married?”

When I woke up on my wedding day I remember feeling excited and nervous at the same time. As I was getting ready I became very calm. Having my girls with me made me feel loved! Each of my bridesmaids meant so much to me and having them next to me on my big day was very special. I felt the love from each one of them. I also loved way my wedding dress fit on my body. It was perfect! I picked out my dress the first day I went dress shopping. Finding my dress was probably the easiest part of wedding planning. Walking down the aisle was such a surreal moment. I could not believe it was happening.

When picking out my wedding colors I wanted to go for something that was soft in color and that also complemented the bridal party. For the reception I wanted simplicity and elegance. The reception venue itself was beautiful and didn’t need much in additional decorations. When we made our grand entrance I was filled with so much joy and gratitude seeing everyone and seeing them in our venue. Our first dance was to Babyface “Everytime I Close My Eyes.” The whole night was amazing but we had a near disaster. They reception hall put out the wrong chairs, but we were able to get that resolved before guests arrived. We also had some sounds issues, but it did not stop us from having a great time. If I could have changed one thing it would have been to hire at least a day of planner. It can get stressful and hectic having to deal with things that go wrong the day of the wedding.

For the Melsi I wanted it to be traditional with decor and also wanted to have the coffee ceremony and of course the henna! I picked a traditional zuria and had the groomsmen wear the traditional all white attire that I absolutely loved! My bridesmaids wore more of modern style zuria that coordinated with my tilfe. My favorite song played during the Melsi was Metsikaley do during the grand entrance. If I could have changed one thing it would have been to have more time for the Melsi. It is my favorite part and goes by so fast! I would also advise current brides to have at least 2 ladies braiding hair and start preparing early so you have enough time to have a portrait session with your bridal party. Good Luck!

Vendor List

Wedding Gown Vendor Name

Novella Bridal
San Francisco, CA
Great customer service!

Ceremony Location Name

Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Oakland
Oakland, CA

Florist Vendor Name

Ann&#039;s bridal
Oakland, CA
They did a great job with the bouquets and flowers.